According to a report by BHP, the mining company has partnered with Microsoft to implement artificial intelligence and machine learning at the Escondida mine, recognized as the largest copper producer globally. This collaboration aims to improve the performance of mining operations through advanced digital technologies.
Laura Tyler, Chief Technical Officer of BHP, highlighted that by integrating new digital technologies and innovative working methods, the team at Escondida is prepared to maximize the value extracted from available resources. “The next revolution in mining will come from the intensive use of digital technologies. With the declining mineral content in existing mines and fewer new discoveries, it is crucial to adopt tools like artificial intelligence and advanced analytics to increase our production,” she stated.
BHP projects that it will be necessary to double global copper production over the next 30 years to meet the demands generated by sustainable technologies such as electric vehicles and renewable energy, while maintaining an ambitious climate goal.
John Montgomery, Corporate Vice President of Microsoft AI Platform, expressed his enthusiasm for this transformative collaboration: “This project illustrates how Artificial Intelligence and cloud-based solutions can revolutionize industries.”
Through real-time analysis provided by Azure, operators will be able to adjust critical operational variables that impact both mineral processing and its effective recovery.
